Some recent research of my group has focused on the origin and evolution of introns, and on the evolution and functional significance of (1) pseudogenes and (2) ectopic expression. We have also dedicated considerable effort to gene organization, gene regulation, and the origin, function, and evolution of small RNAs, particularly in parasitic protozoa.

We continue research on questions related to the molecular clock of evolution. DNA and protein sequences can be used for reconstructing evolutionary history and timing events of the past. How good is the clock? We are investigating a number of genes and testing new models of rates of gene evolution.

Another major research effort focuses on the origin of malaria and other parasitic diseases, such as leishmaniasis, Chagas and sleeping sickness. We have shown that the four species of Plasmodium that cause human malaria diverged many million years ago; they became human parasites independently, by lateral transfer from other hosts. However, the world populations of P. falciparum, the agent of malignant malaria, originated from a single propagule only a few thousand years ago. We have also shown that the world expansion of P. falciparum parasites is very recent, starting in Africa during the Neolithic, a few thousand years ago.

Additionally, I am interested in the philosophy of biology and in bioethics, as well as in the relationships between science and religion, including the teaching of evolution in the schools.

Tomasini, N., J.J. Lauthier, F.J. Ayala, M. Tibayrenc, and P. Diosque. 2014. How Often Do They Have Sex? A Comparative Analysis of the Population Structure of Seven Eukaryotic Microbial Pathogens. PLOS ONE 9(7):e103131.